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Why we like it: It's not often we watch an ad and are in awe of its beauty. Not only is it pleasant to watch, it's supported by an equally engaging poem about the winery and its wine. In a world of extensive post-production and special effects, the 2D spot and its hand-drawn frames offer some refreshment.

Who's it for: The New Zealand Blood Service by Milk & Honey and Young & Shand

Why we like it: Rather than pushing people to donate blood, this campaign celebrates those who have donated blood by giving the survivors the opportunity to say 'thanks'. Surely there's nothing more motivating to give blood than hearing the true stories of those who needed it most, and putting a face to the lives donating can save.

Who's it for: 2degrees

Why we like it: It's good to see 2degrees celebrating inclusively, albeit in a nonsensical way using hybrid animals. There are some some pretty odd combinations, including a man-dog and child-shark, but it's these quirks that make the spot entertaining.

Who's it for: ANZ by True

Why we like it: And here we have another ad driven by an inspirational poem. In the lead up to the Olympics, it's good to see a celebration of past and present New Zealand athletes, as well as potential future Olympians represented by a young child's voice. Seeing this year's Olympians training alongside a clip of Hamish Carter standing on the podium receiving his gold medal serves as a nice reminder of what Kiwi athletes can achieve in Rio.

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23 years ago I did an interactive promotion with James Kwok at Saatchis for Bluebird potato chips on TV2 at 7.30 pm. Two years later I was doing websites for the likes of Sun Direct Insurance and more with Howdo. ...

Congrats on 25 years Simon - since leaving the industry 11 years ago (!) I've looked on at FCB doing some great work. Good luck with the future - I can thoroughly recommend life after advertising. Cheers Brett Atkinson

Simon - You have been a wonderful servant to the industry and in recent years to FCB. I do recall quite some years ago in a short time working together- probably in your first 5 and nearing my 20th - ...

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Why we like it: While a carol by Ronan Keating gets the Christmas feels going, it's great to see Julian Dennison put Keating in his place to make sure the tune is true to New Zealand. It's not a Kiwi summer without glistening bros, prickles and popping the plug out of your jandals. And this spot definitely gets bonus points for the showcasing what is truly meme-worthy face of 'Sad Ronan', as he sulks on the kerb. No doubt this ad will be making its way across the airwaves all Christmas.

Who's it for: Rebel Sport by Ogilvy

Why we like it: This video featuring Eric Thomas, an American motivational speaker, author and minister, follows on from an earlier Rebel Sport ad that uses Thomas to tell the story of All Black Malakai Fekitoa. That ad asked athletes to find their 'why', and now Thomas is back to tell athletes why their 'why' is so important. "Look around your own environment and whose life would be better off if your life was great?" he asks audiences before delving into his own past to show the importance of his 'why'. Thomas engages viewers from the start, and the pairing of his message with images of athletes giving it their all makes for a powerful spot that can't be ignored.

Who's it for: BNZ by Krunch

Why we like it: Contactless payment is nothing new and mobile payment has also been seen before in ANZ's Apple Pay, but this ad rises to the challenge of reintroducing it in an exciting way. Not only does the cute dog do the job successfully, the supporting videos use a baby, a rugby ball and jandals to make the payments. While we don't expect to see anyone whipping those out of their handbags or back pockets to pay for Christmas shopping, the proposed methods show BNZ customers who don't have an Android phone that there are other options for them.

Who's it for: Sky by DDB and Flying Fish

Why we like it: While Sky's programme offering covers more than just sport, the tension and elation when watching a game is something many Kiwis can relate to. And in this spot, Sky takes centre stage as the deliverer of the anxiety, ecstasy and camaraderie that comes with watching the big game. It certainly serves as a compelling reminder that Sky remains the go-to place for New Zealand's most popular sports.